Animal Fantasy

James and the Giant Peach

Roald Dahl, Lane Smith (Paperback)

Genre: Fiction - Animal Fantasy; Book Theme: Insects and Spiders

"James and the Giant Peach" by Roald Dahl is an imaginative children's fantasy book. After James Trotter drops magic crystals by the peach tree, the peach at the top of the tree grows to an enormous size; so do some insects under the peach tree. James escapes from his nasty aunts and embarks on a great adventure with his giant insect friends in the giant peach. Many kids will find the story funny and exciting, although the chapter book has a slightly dark side. "James and the Giant Peach" appeals to children in 4th grade through 7th grade.

Charlotte's Web

E. B. White, Garth Williams (Paperback)

Genre: Fiction - Animal Fantasy; Book Themes: Animals, Insects and Spiders, Friendship, Farm Life

"Charlotte's Web" by beloved author E. B. White, with illustrations by Garth Williams, is one of the best children's books ever written. In this Newbery award-winning chapter book, a pig named Wilbur forms a strong friendship with a spider named Charlotte, who also lives on the farm. Charlotte saves the pig's life by spinning words on her web. E. B. White creates a very memorable character in Charlotte. Children in second grade through seventh grade will enjoy this fascinating story and great classic children's book. "Charlotte's Web" is also a good animal fantasy book to read aloud to children.

The Mouse and the Motorcycle

Beverly Cleary, Louis Darling (Paperback)

Genres: Fiction - Adventure Books, Animal Fantasy; Book Theme: Animals

"The Mouse and the Motorcycle" is another good chapter book from award-winning author Beverly Cleary. Ralph the mouse makes friends with a boy named Keith, the owner of a toy motorcycle, and goes on many adventures. Children in third grade through seventh grade will enjoy the action and adventures in this well-written animal fantasy book.

Babe: The Gallant Pig

Dick King-Smith (Paperback)

Genre: Fiction - Animal Fantasy; Book Theme: Animals

"Babe: The Gallant Pig" is a fast-paced heartwarming animal fantasy book by Dick King-Smith. After arriving at farmer Hogget's farm, a pig named Babe saves sheep from hustlers and wild dogs and goes on winning a sheepherding competition. The main character Babe the pig is lovable, sensitive and polite. Children in third grade through seventh grade will enjoy this wonderful animal story. "Babe: The Gallant Pig", whose book awards include Boston Globe-Horn Book honor book and ALA Notable Book, is one of our favorite chapter books.